PENDER COUNTY, N.C. (WECT) – Pender County Schools bus drivers will receive a pay bump and upgraded radio systems to increase safety.

At their Feb. 3 meeting, the Pender County Board of Commissioners approved spending more than $1.3 million for the district to address bus drivers’ concerns.

• $400,000 will go toward new monitors and radios for school buses.
• $300,000 will go toward pay increases for drivers.
• The remaining funds will go toward upgrading 2,000 Chromebooks for Pender County Schools students.

According to Pender County Schools, the hourly wage will increase by $1.49, bumping wages from $16.26 to $17.75 an hour.

“This adjustment makes the district more competitive with surrounding areas and recognizes the essential role bus drivers play in safely transporting students each day. Additionally, bus monitors will also receive a pay increase, further supporting the dedicated staff who help ensure student safety,” the district stated in an announcement.

Pender County Schools also announced they will be able to equip all buses, schools, and the transportation department with upgraded radio systems. The district says this will ensure drivers have direct communication and support no matter where they are on their routes.

The proposal was originally made in a meeting on Jan. 14. Dr. Brad Breedlove, Superintendent of Pender County Schools, spoke about bus drivers’ concerns about safety due to the lack of radios and monitors in buses.

“Bus drivers are on an island and that’s the feedback they’ve given us,” said Breedlove. “When they go out early in the morning or late in the evening they’re by themselves.”

Drivers also demanded help to lighten the load of those who drive multiple routes as well as updates to the school bus discipline policy.

“Asking and looking at our discipline policy, why aren’t we removing that student after multiple warnings and calling parents and all from the bus,” said Breedlove.

Breedlove says the district is grateful the board recognized the importance of these investments.

“The improved radio system not only enhances the safety of our transportation network but also provides peace of mind for our drivers, knowing that they are supported in real-time.”

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